As an avid science fiction and fantasy reader, and as a children’s librarian, I’ve read my share of wonderful and intriguing stories. But nothing I’ve read before has been as deeply satisfying as John Flanagan’s Ranger’s Apprentice series. For the young, or not so young, reader craving action Flanagan’s books are hard to beat. And on that alone I’ve confidently suggested the books to readers of all ages craving a thrilling tale.
But there’s much more to the Ranger’s Apprentice than swashbuckling adventures. The heart of the series is really in the relationships between Will, the young ranger’s apprentice, Halt, the ranger, Horace, Will’s friend and sometimes rival, and some highly accomplished and very strong young women. Yes, there’s even some romance.
As a father, I found most moving the relationship that grows between Will and Halt. It is one of those rare things in fiction, the depiction of a competent and loving father figure—and a son who returns his love. Flanagan is writing from the heart here, and he does it with such feeling that I’ve found myself repeatedly moved to tears.
Add to that just a bit of delightfully corny humor and you’ve got a series that is far too short at 11 volumes. (Flanagan has promised a 12th and final book.)
Fortunately, John Flanagan has begun a promising new series, The Brotherband Chronicles. John Flanagan will be reading from Book 1, The Outcasts, at the Central Library on Friday, November 4, at 7 p.m. The event is free and no registration is required.
~Steve DelVecchio
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